The Michigan Attorney General’s Office has determined that no charges will be filed against a Michigan State Police trooper who fatally shot a man during a standoff in Port Huron Township earlier this year.
According to a memorandum released by the AG’s office, the shooting was deemed legally justified under Michigan’s Self Defense Act after a detailed investigation by the Michigan State Police Second District Special Investigation Section.
The incident happened on February 12th at the Port of Call mobile home park, where troopers and St. Clair County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a 911 call about domestic disturbance involving an intoxicated man, identified as 52-year-old Mark Ryan. According to investigators, Ryan had been drinking throughout the day and was reportedly threatening to harm himself.
When officers arrived, they encountered Ryan holding what appeared to them to be a handgun. Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, Ryan began yelling threats and advanced toward Trooper Cole Wallace. Investigators say the weapon, later confirmed to be a realistic-looking BB gun with no orange safety tip, was raised and pointed at officers.
Trooper Wallace fired three shots as Ryan came within roughly 10 to 15 feet of him, hitting Ryan in the chest and shoulder. The memorandum states that Wallace and other officers immediately attempted to render aid. Ryan was transported to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The AG’s office says bodycam footage, witness statements, and audio evidence all confirmed that Trooper Wallace and other officers made repeated attempts to de-escalate the situation. However, given the potential threat posed, the use of deadly force was determined to be necessary and lawful.
According to the AG’s findings, Ryan had a history of mental health struggles, including prior suicide attempts. Toxicology reports later also revealed he had a blood alcohol content of 0.215 at the time of his death.
Authorities say the decision not to pursue charges was based on Michigan law, which allows individuals, including police officers, to use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm.
Photo credit: State of Michigan Department of Attorney General
